If you're looking for tips regarding how to use oregano oil for toenail fungus, then you probably already know that oregano oil is one of nature's most powerful fungicidals. When used in conjunction with other natural antifungal treatments, its efficacy can even be improved.
About Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is not an uncommon problem. Unfortunately, this condition can be difficult to treat since internal antifungals cannot reach the root of the problem. Toenails are relatively set apart from the body's blood supply which means that internal medicines are not very effective in reaching the affected area. This means that a person with toenail fungus will need to be very diligent regarding the application of topical treatments.
How to Use Oregano Oil for Toenail Fungus
Oregano oil is derived from the herb, oregano. This oil contains a concentrated version of oregano's fungicidal properties and can be very effective at combating fungal infections. Unfortunately, oregano oil is extremely powerful and it can act as a skin irritant. This means that you will not want to apply the undiluted oil of oregano directly to your skin unless you are willing to cope with redness and burning - the skin's usual response to such an invasive substance.
You don't want to dilute essential oils in water. Instead, these oils are best diluted in a carrier oil. Popular carrier oils are jojoba and olive oil. Jojoba oil is a very healing substance that can almost mimic the consistency and properties of the skin's natural sebum. However, jojoba oil is more expensive than olive oil, and both are good choices. So, if you are on a budget, using olive oil as your carrier method is the more economic option.
Try diluting two or three drops of the oregano essential oil in about a teaspoon's worth of olive oil. Rub this mixture over the infected toe and try to keep the toe exposed to as much fresh air as possible. Items such as socks and shoes can serve to trap moisture in the foot area and, unfortunately, fungi breeds easily in warm humid environments.
Investing in some soft rubber flip flops is probably your best bet for allowing the oil to seep in to the affected area without tracking the mixture throughout your household. Essential oils and carrier oils can stain socks and carpets. Moreover, the scent of oregano may be enjoyable in your kitchen, but once it takes hold in your carpets you may find oregano to be more pungent than pleasant.
Keeping your feet exposed to the air is important for the healing process. Unfortunately, toenail fungus is not exactly attractive and many affected persons would rather hide this condition inside socks and shoes. If this is the case, try to select more breathable types of footwear.
The time allocated for this treatment is typically between two to three weeks. In most cases, this is the time needed to heal the infection. If you don't see improvement throughout this time period, you will likely need to seek an alternative means of treatment.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is also touted as one of nature's more effective antifungals. You can include a drop or two of tea tree oil into your oregano and olive oil mixture to enhance the treatment's effectiveness.
Oral Supplementation
In some cases, a toenail fungus may spread into the blood stream. Oil of oregano can also be taken internally, though not all essentials oils are food grade quality. In order to combat the risk of an internal infection, you can supplement your topical treatment with standardized oregano oil. Oral oregano oil used in conjunction with the topical essential oil can provide a double punch against fungal invaders. Oral oregano oil can be found in capsules at your local grocery store. Do not exceed the dosage and treatment recommendations listed on the bottle unless you are advised otherwise by a medical professional.
Ask Your Doctor
When you're wondering how to use oregano oil for toenail fungus, keep in mind that you should not treat any type of infection without first consulting a doctor. Some dermatologists are familiar with oregano oil as a natural treatment for toenail fungus, but such a treatment should not be engaged without medical supervision. Severe skin irritations can arise from the improper usage of oregano oil and, moreover, you will want an official fungal diagnosis before attempting this treatment.
